From talks and walks to workshops and exhibitions, discover the wildlife-themed events that are happening across the UK’s nine WWT centres in 2025
Wherever you live in the UK, you’re just a short distance away from one of the UK’s nine Wildfowl & Wetlands (WWT) centres – and if you’re a fan of nature and wildlife, that’s a very exciting prospect. These carefully managed locations provide a home to a wide range of species, from birds and amphibians to insects and rodents, meaning you should be able to spot a wealth of fascinating creatures on each and every visit.
Throughout the year, each of these centres also hosts a range of events to help visitors engage with their passion. From wildlife walks to craft workshops, these fun activities are aimed at people of all ages, meaning you can gain even more from your visit whether you’re a wide-eyed newbie or a seasoned nature lover.
What’s more, as a Boundless member, you can take advantage of unlimited access to all nine WWT centres, bring up to five children for free and an additional adult for half price, as well as getting a 10% discount in the WWT’s on-site shops and cafés.
Already a Boundless member? Simply log in to gain full access to all the offers and benefits included in your membership.
Not yet a member? If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus. Enjoy unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more.
Here are just some of the events coming up at each WWT centre, simply click on a link to jump to:
WWT Arundel, West Sussex
Photo: Getty Images
Spanning 26 hectares, WWT Arundel is part of the spectacular River Arun floodplain and is surrounded by ancient woodland. The site features ponds, lakes and reed beds, and is fed by springs from the nearby Chalky Downs. Visitors can view wildlife from seven hides, and level access is provided to all areas of the site. With two play areas and picnic sites, it’s an ideal place for families of all ages to visit.
Aardman Presents Lloyd of the Flies: Wetland Bug Hunt, 5 April – 1 June
Experience life through an insect’s eyes by downloading Aardman Animations’ Lloyd of the Flies AR Bug Hunt augmented reality app. Once connected, you’ll be tasked with helping Lloyd find his friends and family, and navigate his way back to the bug hotel.
April Dawn Chorus Walk, 26 April
If you can cope with getting up early, this guided walk at dawn is a multi-sensory treat. You’ll learn how to identify various bird species by their unique songs, as well as experiencing the wetland centre bathed in the spectacular glow of sunrise.
Bentley Wildlife Wood Carver Displays, monthly
Held once a month, these displays showcase the intricate, handmade wildlife models created by Bentley Wildlife Wood Carvers at WWT Arundel. Many of the pieces of work are for sale, with 10% of sales being donated to the wetland centre.
Begin Wood Carving, throughout the year
Learn the basics of wood carving in these relaxed workshops for beginners. Ideal for those who enjoy crafting with natural materials, they’ll enable you to create your very own wooden models of birds to take home. In 2025, you can make a blue tit (23 March), a ringed plover (4 May), a long-tailed tit (28 September) and a robin (23 November). Tools, paint, protective gear, a roughed-out wooden block and expert instruction are all provided. These workshops are for adults only.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Arundel in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway
Photo: Sam Stafford, WWT
Discover saltmarshes, ponds and grassland over 587 hectares at WWT Caerlaverock. Using a network of seasonal nature trails, wildlife enthusiasts can use hides and observation towers to spot birds such as osprey, tree sparrow and marsh harrier.
Edgelands: The Landscape of Margins, 1 March – 30 April
Galloway artist Sheena McCurrach’s paintings, cards and prints focus on areas of landscape that transition from one kind of terrain to another, whether that be a meadow that turns into moorland or a field that segues into a garden. In this free exhibition, you can enjoy some of her most intriguing and beautiful works.
Goodbye to the Geese, 28-30 March
Also featured on our 25 fabulous free events to attend in March page, this mini-festival celebrates the start of spring by saying farewell to the wetland centre’s popular winter migrants. Activities over the three days include guided walks and breakfasts at the boathouse.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Caerlaverock in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Castle Espie, County Down
Photo: Ben Cherry, WWT
Situated on the spectacular shores of Strangford Lough, WWT Castle Espie is home to Northern Ireland’s largest collection of native and exotic birds, ducks and geese in the World Wetland Aviary. Explore nature trails through the wetland and woodland, stopping at bird hides and viewing points to spot seasonal wildlife.
New Moon: After Hours Sound Spa Experience, 30 March
Wind down after a busy day with a unique healing session amid the tranquil surroundings of Castle Espie. With therapist Tessa Ann as your host, you’ll be serenaded by the gentle sounds of singing bowls, gongs and drums, not to mention the resident wildlife. By the end of it, you’ll feel refreshed and revitalised.
Easter Craft Fair, 13 April
Whether you’re looking for a special gift or you just want to treat yourself, you’re sure to find something eye-catching at this Easter craft fair, hosted by the North Down Craft Collective. With everything from textiles and ceramics to paintings and prints on display, there will be something for every taste and budget.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Castle Espie in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Llanelli events, Carmarthenshire
Photo: Clem Stevens, WWT
Explore 450 acres of lakes, reed beds, woodlands, pools and lagoons at WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre. Enjoy breathtaking views across the saltmarsh to Penclawdd on the Gower Peninsula. The wetland is home to an incredible variety of Welsh wildlife and rare bird species, including vibrant Caribbean flamingos!
Wildlife Photography Workshops, monthly
If you’ve ever wanted to capture perfect pictures of animals, birds and insects, then these workshops are for you. Hosted on the first Saturday of each month by renowned wildlife photographer Paul Way, they’ll help you to master camera settings and framing, while giving you the chance to gain inspiration from Paul’s own work.
Boundless members with an interest in photography can join the Boundless Photography Group. Taking place mainly on Facebook, it sees members share skills, technical knowledge and, best of all, some fantastic photography.
Walk with a Warden, monthly
Held once a month, Llanelli’s Walk with a Warden events provide a fantastic opportunity to get some expert insight into the species found at this WWT centre. From starling murmurations to feeding plovers, these expert-led excursions are sure to provide some sights to remember. They are included with admission and there’s no need to book ahead – just check the start times beforehand.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Llanelli in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT London Wetland Centre events
Photo: Sam Walker, WWT
Connect with nature in the city at WWT London Wetland Centre – a 44-hectare wetland habitat of ponds, reed beds, open water, grazing marsh and a flooded meadow. It's home to a wide variety of visiting British wildlife – spot wild birds, bats, dragonflies and butterfly species in the summer months. Situated in Barnes in South West London, the site is easily accessible by public transport – see Transport for London to plan your journey.
Junior Bat Walks, 10-17 April
Your little ones would be batty to miss these guided walks, which focus on the mysterious winged creatures that reside at WWT London Wetland Centre.
After using bat detectors to locate and observe these creatures, the session will finish with stories and marshmallows around the campfire.
Mandala Workshop, 12 April
To celebrate Stress Awareness Month, why not try your hand at mandala, a form of geometric art that has ties with Tibetan Buddhism. Led by an expert from storybeyondlines, this workshop will promote a sense of wellbeing, and also give you the chance to take home your work as a souvenir.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT London Wetland Centre in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Martin Mere, Lancashire
Photo: Sam Stafford, WWT
Combine wilderness with family fun at WWT Martin Mere – this huge nature reserve is home to over 2,000 different species from around the world, including flamingoes, inca terns, common cranes, kingfishers and water voles. Situated near Ormskirk in Lancashire, the site has a large adventure playground and offers family-friendly activities such as pond dipping, wild walks and canoe safaris throughout the year.
Easter Giant Duck Hunt, 5-21 April
Little detectives will love this fun activity, which challenges them to locate a giant duck that’s gone missing at WWT Martin Mere. Once they’ve collected their activity sheet, they’ll be tasked with walking round a trail looking for clues – and if they’re successful, they’ll be rewarded with a tasty treat!
Bat and Barn Owl Nights, 13 June – 12 July
Explore the nature reserve at dusk for the chance to see bats and owls up close. Watch as barn owls come out to hunt over the wetlands at sunset, and learn more about the eight species of bat that hunt around the site with one of the team’s resident bat experts. You'll even get the chance to hear them ‘chattering’ using electronic bat detectors. Tickets must be bought in advance.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Martin Mere in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Slimbridge events, Gloucestershire
Photo: Getty Images
Discover rare birds from all over the world at WWT Slimbridge in Gloucestershire. A Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI), the 325-hectare site is home to flocks of geese, ducks and swans in the winter months, and a breeding ground for waders in the summer. You might also spot brown hares, wild otters and even grass snakes.
Catch the Tide, 29 & 30 March
A curious natural phenomenon, the Severn Bore is a tidal surge that occurs along the River Severn around 250 times a year. It’s at its most impressive in the spring – and you can get a great view from the Estuary Tower at WWT Slimbridge. While you’re there, look out for the myriad birdlife that inhabit the riverside, including waders and birds of prey.
Weekly Pollinator Walks, every Thursday
Bees and insects play a crucial role at WWT Slimbridge, and you can discover how on one of the wetland centre’s weekly pollinator walks. You’ll learn about the myriad species that live here, and also find out about plans to create an extensive new pollinator and bug habitat across the site.
Wild History Walks, various dates throughout the year
Marvel at the reserve’s seasonal wildlife and discover the history of Slimbridge reserve, chosen by Sir Peter Scott as the birthplace of modern conservation. After working up an appetite, you’ll end the two-hour walk with a scrumptious cream tea.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Slimbridge in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Steart Marshes, Somerset
Photo: Harley Todd, WWT
The first of WWT’s working wetlands, Steart Marshes is a unique landscape that provides natural flood defence for local homes and buildings, and carbon capture through coastal realignment. Explore salt marshes, mudflats and freshwater wetlands at its extensive site that showcases how nature can be used to fight climate change.
Guided Walks, daily
Take a walk on the wild side on a guided walk around the nature reserve. Walks vary depending on the season, with birdwatching, species identification, night walks and more taking place throughout the year. Booking is essential.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Steart Marshes in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Washington events, Tyne and Wear
Photo: Ben Cherry
Enjoy panoramic views across WWT Washington’s large saline lagoon, and explore lakes, reed beds, marshes and ponds. Throughout the year, the wetlands are teeming with wildlife, such as wild otter, roe deer and curlew, so don’t forget to pack your binoculars next time you visit to see what you can spot from one of the four hides.
Wild Walk Spring Tease, 1 March
Look out for the first signs of spring on this guided walk with the reserve team. As well as testing your skills at identifying birds and trees, you’ll get a chance to ask questions about WWT Washington and its inhabitants.
Natural Printing and Clay Faces, 2 March
If your little ones love crafting, then this fun workshop will really get their creative juices flowing. They’ll learn various print and mark-making techniques, including the Japanese art of leaf dyeing, as well as using clay to make faces on tree trunks.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Washington in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
WWT Welney Events, Norfolk
Photo: Stephanie Foote, WWT
Found in the northernmost corner of the Ouse Washes, a large area of land that floods seasonally, WWT Welney is a spectacular nature reserve to visit throughout the year. From mass winter gatherings of wild birds to carpets of wildflowers in the summer, the site hosts a calendar of interesting nature events.
Swan Feeds, every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Witness the feeding habits of WWT Welney’s swans at one of the wetland centre’s daily sessions. From the main observatory hide, you’ll get close-up views of whooper and mute swans as they duck and dive in search of the grain handed out by the guide, who’ll also provide a running commentary on what’s happening.
For a full list of what’s on at WWT Welney in 2025, and to book tickets, visit the events page.
Do more with Boundless
If you're working in or retired from the public sector or civil service, Boundless has two great membership options to choose from: Boundless and Boundless Plus.
With Boundless, you get unlimited access or discounted entry to many of the UK’s top attractions, including Kew Gardens and Wakehurst and WWT centres across the UK, as well as year-round deals on restaurants, holidays, shopping and much more. With Boundless Plus, you can enjoy additional benefits, including unlimited access to Historic Royal Palaces sites, National Trust for Scotland places, access to the Ramblers' extensive group walks and routes, and peace of mind with roadside assistance and local recovery by LV= Britannia Rescue.
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